Learn how researchers use DNA to connect juvenile spotted seatrout to an adult spawning population in Tampa Bay.

In this video, you will learn how researchers at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute study spotted seatrout reproductive success. They sample adult spotted seatrout from the most consistently populated spawning aggregation site in Tampa Bay throughout their spawning season. They measure the length of each fish and determine its sex. Researchers then take a fin clip from which they can collect a DNA sample that will allow them to identify each individual fish. All fish are released alive. Research staff compares these DNA samples with DNA collected from fin clips of juvenile spotted seatrout throughout Tampa Bay to evaluate whether the juveniles' parents are part of the adult population sampled at the spawning site.

Video courtesy of FishBuzz TV.

FWC Facts:The average Florida manatee is about 10 ft. long and close to 1,200 lbs. They can reach up to 13 ft. and 3,500 lbs. Calves are 3-4 ft. long & weigh 60-70 lbs. at birth.